Bistro BE to open on Friday, July 18, 2014
Bistro BE, downtown Miami’s exciting new authentic Belgian restaurant, is making its highly anticipated debut on Friday, July 18, 2014. The chic and sophisticated eatery aims to enchant Miami palates with a lively food and drink scene, featuring an expansive menu of Belgian delights and extensive beer list, with upwards of 70 different selections.
Working in tandem with restaurant owners Emmanuel Verschueren and Tim Michels, executive chef Frederik Appelt will oversee the menu, which will showcase the sophisticated French technique and bold flavors Belgian cuisine is known for. A newcomer to Miami, the Belgian-born chef is no stranger to the kitchen. Appelt previously served as executive chef at some of Belgium’s most esteemed restaurants, including Bistro Kosmopole, one of the most visited restaurants in Leuven, as well as Gastropub de Molen, widely recognized during Appelt’s tenure as one of the country’s best restaurant’s offering classic Belgian fare.
The menu at Bistro BE offers a diverse selection of traditional Belgian dishes including mussels, frites and waffles, both savory and sweet – as well as modern takes on some of the country’s classics. The nation’s love of beer is apparent throughout the menu. Starters ($11-$21) includebaked wild mushrooms with shallots, chives and spring onions in a buttery garlic sauce served on toasted beer bread; chicken stew with button mushrooms, Duvel mousseline and veal meatballs in a velouté cream cause, served in puff pastries; and seared scallops with chicory confit, black pudding and a Stella mousseline.
Savory main plates ($17-$28) feature filet mignon tartar prepared with egg yolk, shallots, capers and plated with baby gherkins, silver onions and cooked quail egg served with mesclun salad and frites; grilled angus filet with black peppercorn cream or béarnaise sauce; beefstew, gingerbread, endive salad and frites; and Flemish vegetable stew – fresh vegetables, in a bouillon rich with parsley, chives and spring onions. Those looking for a lighter meal will want to try Bistro BE’s selection of salads ($13-$16). Standout options are chicory and baby arugula salad with French brie croquettes breaded, lightly fried and drizzled with Kriek beer syrup; and fresh seared Ahi tunawith anchovies, julienned peppers, black olives and red onions tossed in balsamic vinaigrette.
For dinner, the menu expands to include a variety of Belgian mussel pots all served with frites and house- made mussel sauce. Other dinner options include grilled hanger steak with béarnaise sauce and chicory salad and frites; rabbit stew with prunes, Gueuze beer and carrots served with potato croquettes; and sautéed duck filet with cherry beer sauce, Brussels sprouts and potato croquettes. Assorted sides and snacks ($6-$12) range from “Grandmother’s” mashed potatoes and fries to a Belgian Mac & Cheese made with Chimay Trappist cheese.
For a decadent ending, diners can indulge in the assortment of delectable desserts ($8-$14) including a Belgian chocolate lava cake with blueberries and crème anglaise sauce; traditionalBelgian pancakes with vanilla ice cream and chocolate sauce; and Brussels waffle with whipped cream, strawberries and powdered sugar.
With beer culture so closely tied to Belgian culture, the beer menu boasts a staggering list of rare Belgian brews, as well as recognizable brands. There are more than 70 different selections available by the bottle and eight on tap. Servers are also trained in beer etiquette, from pouring technique down to the proper glassware. Central to the design of the dining room is a wall display behind the bar showcasing glassware for each of the beers served. Guests will also find a comprehensive list of well-priced wines by the glass or bottle to complement their meal.
Bistro BE will bring guests as close to Belgium as one can get without a passport. The sleek, contemporary décor is reminiscent of a modern Belgian bistro with blond wood, white furnishings and modernist lighting. The 1,970 square-foot restaurant seats approximately 110, including communal chef’s tables positioned adjacent to the airy open kitchen, a spacious bar and covered patio.
Bistro BE will be open daily for lunch and dinner, 11:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Brunch will launch at a later date. Located on the north side of the Axis Building at 1111 SW 1st Avenue in downtown Miami. Street and municipal parking available. Telephone: (305) 375-0975; www.BistroBE.com.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BistroBE
Twitter: https://twitter.com/bistrobe
Instagram: http://instagram.com/bistrobemiami
